When MPNZ's load shedding percentage exceeds 75%, the bar on the graph should move into a red zone. It signals the USI transmission grid is approaching peak loading and as MPNZ's load shedding percentage approaches 100% there is a reasonable likelihood of new chargeable peak periods occurring.

When the end of the bar is red MPNZ is deploying its maximum load control capability (100%). The longer MPNZ load shedding remains at 100% the more likely new chargeable peak periods will occur on the USI grid. This forms a reasonable signal for consumers to manage their load and to continue doing so until the bar on graph moves down from 100% and ceases to be red at the end.

When the whole bar is white (0%) MPNZ is not controlling any load and the grid will be operating at normal load levels. This bar is updated every 5 minutes.

Rangiora East Substation

On Thursday 11 June 2015, MainPower hosted an information session for local residents at Tuahiwi Market Gardens. The purpose of the evening was to inform residents of plans for a proposed substation on the land purchased by MainPower in Tuahiwi (bordering Tuahiwi and Rangiora Woodend Roads).

MainPower’s focus is on the delivery of a safe, secure and reliable electricity network in our region. The need for the proposed substation is driven by rapid growth in the Rangiora urban area and the Woodend/Pegasus area.

What is the project all about?In order to cope with rapid growth in the Rangiora urban area and the Woodend/Pegasus area, MainPower plans to construct a 66/11kV (kilovolt) substation in the Rangiora east area on a triangle of land at the Tuahiwi and Rangiora-Woodend Road intersection. The substation will ensure capacity is available for growth and will improve security of supply to the area. The project will also require the construction of new 66kV supply lines to the substation and the creation of new 11kV feeder lines out of the substation into the surrounding district.

When will the construction commence?The timing of the construction is dependent on future growth rates in the Rangiora and Woodend areas, and is forecast to be within 2-4 years. Before MainPower can proceed with the project, we need to go through the resource consent process with the Waimakariri District Council (WDC). This will involve a formal consultative process and mitigation of concerns and impacts.

Where can I get more information about the project?We are only in the very early stages of the project so there is not a lot of information available. If you are interested in being kept informed, please make contact with MainPower and we will add you to our distribution list for any updates.

How can I have my say?At this stage, you can provide your feedback directly to MainPower. Before commencement of the project, it will go through the resource consent process which provides an opportunity for public submissions from affected parties.